Building a Nation

Essay questions:

1. Compare and contrast the Articles of Confederation and the Constitution, especially in regard to the specific powers granted by each to the national government.

2. Compare and contrast “loose” and “strict” constructionism.  What is the basis of support for each position?

3. Describe what you think would be Hamilton’s assessment of government in the United States today.  Describe what you think Jefferson’s assessment would be.

4. Very early in its national history, the United States established a tradition of isolationism in its foreign policy.  How did the Neutrality Proclamation and Washington’s Farewell Address contribute to this tradition?

5. What was the importance of the Whiskey Rebellion?

6. How would you have voted on funding, assumption, the National Bank, and protective tariffs in Hamilton’s program? Explain why you would advocate strict or loose constructionism.

Internet-based assignment:

Read Federalist Paper #10 and the Kentucky & Virginia Resolutions.  All of the documents were written by James Madison.  What are the primary points of his arguments in each of these documents.  What, if any, contradictions exist between these documents?

Kentucky Resolution

Virginia Resolution

Federalist Paper #10

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